A teenage gardener is leading a bid for glory at the Chelsea Flower Show, which starts today.

Dominic Grimes, from Burley-in-Wharfedale, has played a major part in Leeds City Council’s display.

The 17-year-old is 12 months into a two-year Green Apprenticeship Progr-amme with the Council.

Alongside another 17-year-old apprentice, Andrew Bray, Mr Grimes has been part of the planting team, ensuring the plants in the garden are perfectly in bloom for show week.

He has also been part of the team installing last year’s gold-medal-winning Chelsea Garden 2010 in the Gardens of the World section of Roundhay Park, Leeds, which will shortly be open to the public.

The pair have been described as unsung heroes of the authority’s efforts at Chelsea.

“It was fantastic to be asked if I wanted to be involved in the Chelsea gardens for both this year and last year,” said Mr Grimes.

“It’s been a great experience and I’ve learned a huge amount about how carefully everything has to be planned and carried out when you are competing at Chelsea.”

Leeds City Council leader Councillor Keith Wakefield praised the teenagers for their efforts.

“It is really great to see Dominic and Andrew getting the chance to be part of something like putting a Chelsea garden together, which will represent our city on an international level,” he said.

  • Read the full story in Tuesday's T&A